External voltage

External voltage

External voltage is voltage that, due to the nature of the system (hidden or unintended), is present across the terminals of a connected device in a circuit via the wires of components, sensors, or actuators. 

What is an external voltage?

Under External voltage is voltage that occurs in a system either hidden or unintentionally. This external voltage can be caused by a source of interference, for example, and is connected to the components of an electrical system.

This means that this external voltage is applied to sensors, actuators or the terminals of a connected device via the cables of an electrical system and can be measured there.

External voltage in measurement technology

External voltage distorts the measurement signal in a PLC or measuring devices that are connected to sensors and can also cause damage.

In particular, unintentional or incorrectly set up connections to circuits with earth leakage can lead to personal injury.

External voltage in sound engineering and music systems

In audio systems and audio systems, external voltage can lead to an interference level. This results in unwanted humming or noise. 

Causes of external tension

  1. Contact with live 230V alternating current cables by devices or sensors, e.g. if the temperature in the immediate vicinity of these lines is measured.
  2. Coupling of 230V mains voltage via a connection between the actuator and downstream MCR components.